If an adolescent is diagnosed with an eating disorder, her family may be looking for a residential treatment facility that specializes in treatment for eating disorders. Residential treatment programs are often useful for clients who have one of the three common types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Residential treatment centers provide comprehensive treatment and provide clients and their families the highest level of medical and psychiatric care outside of a hospital setting. Let’s look at each of the common types of eating disorders.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by having a distorted body image. The client may severely restrict his or her eating and may exercise intensely to reduce weight. The client does not maintain a weight deemed healthy according to their height, weight and body type and may be terrified of gaining any weight at all. Of all mental disorders (not just eating disorders), anorexia nervosa is among the deadliest. There are other serious complications that can occur with anorexia nervosa, including bone thinning, heart damage, brain damage, multiorgan failure, muscle wasting, and anemia. Should a young person have anorexia nervosa, they should enter residential treatment centers for proper care. These residential treatment programs are designed to help re-establish a more mindful relationship with food, movement, and body.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa includes cycles of binge eating episodes and compensatory behaviors, forced vomiting, excessive exercise, taking diuretics, taking laxatives, fasting or a combining of these actions. A client with bulimia nervosa, after speaking with a medical professional, is recommended to enter residential treatment centers to find balance, explore the underlying causes of the disorder and develop a more mindful relationship with food and oneself. Bulimia nervosa can have serious complications including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, acid reflux, tooth decay, and throat irritations. A residential treatment facility can help guide and support the individual on the path to recovery.  

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is characterized by episodes of overeating, even when not hungry. An individual may eat a lot of food very quickly, at times in a span of just a few hours. He or she may eat alone out of embarrassment, fear or shame. Patients receive the support needed to understand the disorder and address the negative thoughts and behaviors at a residential treatment center for clients.

Why Your Teen Needs Proper Treatment

If your teenager has an eating disorder, you will not likely see recovery without appropriate treatment and care. Clementine, a Monte Nido affiliate for adolescents, provides residential treatment programs specifically designed for teenagers with eating disorders. The residential treatment facility is designed to treat clients as individuals, exploring the root causes of the disorder and supporting positive habits and behaviors that will guide them on the path to recovery. With comprehensive academic and family support, both the adolescent and her family can feel safe and secure.